Illinois increases help to buy fruits, vegetables

SPRINGFIELD — The state of Illinois will increase its contribution to those buying fruits and vegetables in a need-based food program for women, children and infants.

The Illinois Department of Human Services announced on Monday it will offer an additional $2 per month for produce in the federally-funded supplemental food program. It increases the amount from $6 to $8 per month.

DHS Secretary Michelle Saddler says the increase will allow for more healthy foods to be available to children.

The program was created to improve nutrition for low-income pregnant women and mothers with infants and children. It serves more than 140,000 in the state. State officials say it has contributed to reducing infant deaths, low birth-weight rates and health problems in children.